Harlingen PD speak on school bus and zone safety as students go back to school

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — As students go back to school, the Harlingen Police Department wants to remind the public of school bus safety and protocols when driving on the road.

Sgt. Sal Cardona with the Harlingen Police Department advises motorists to stay off their phones when driving and be aware when around school zones. Any violations made in school zones can lead to fines of up to $200, he said.

He also advises parents to leave early as it is best they avoid traffic and get there on time.

When it comes to school buses dropping students off, drivers from both directions must come to a complete stop.

"We are seeing more and more people disregarding the yellow caution light, so we want to make sure when you see the yellow light you know a red is coming," Cardona said. "So prepare yourself when the bus comes to a complete stop."

Any violations made from disregarding a school bus stop can lead to fines of up to $500 to $1,250.